Stuffed cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food that combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory filling of ground beef, rice, and aromatic seasonings. This dish, often baked in a rich tomato sauce, brings together comforting flavors in a way that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy evening, stuffed cabbage rolls are easy to prepare and can be customized to suit different tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Directions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully submerge the cabbage head. Boil for 5 minutes, or until the outer leaves become soft and pliable. Remove the cabbage and allow it to cool.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.
- Assemble the Rolls: Carefully peel off the cabbage leaves, making sure they stay intact. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture into each cabbage leaf and roll them up tightly, folding in the edges as you go to keep the filling secure.
- Bake: Arrange the cabbage rolls in a baking dish, placing them seam-side down. In a separate bowl, mix the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, then pour the mixture evenly over the cabbage rolls. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and allow the cabbage rolls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this comforting dish!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Use a plant-based protein or lentils in place of the ground beef for a vegetarian option.
- Different Meat Choices: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter alternative to beef.
- Rice Options: You can use quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a different texture or to make the dish gluten-free.
- Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: These stuffed cabbage rolls freeze well. Store them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in foil for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place the rolls in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen rolls, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different kind of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork instead of beef. - How do I make the cabbage leaves more pliable?
Boiling the cabbage makes the leaves softer and easier to roll. Make sure to let the cabbage cool before handling. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls the day before and refrigerate them until ready to bake. - Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the meat with a plant-based protein or lentils for a vegetarian alternative. - How do I prevent the cabbage rolls from falling apart?
Make sure to roll the cabbage leaves tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish to help keep them together. - Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can cook the stuffed cabbage rolls in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. - What should I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls?
A side of mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple salad pairs well with stuffed cabbage rolls. - Can I use other vegetables in the filling?
Yes, you can add finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and texture. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover cabbage rolls for up to 3 months. Reheat by baking them at 350°F until hot. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the filling for some extra heat.
Conclusion
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a hearty and flavorful dish that brings comfort to any meal. Whether you stick with the traditional beef and rice filling or explore variations with different meats and vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for leftovers, stuffed cabbage rolls offer both versatility and flavor in every bite. Enjoy the rich, savory taste that only a classic dish like this can provide!